England's semi final clash with Croatia has prompted an unprecedented break in protocol at the city council which has cancelled a crucial meeting tomorrow night so councillors can watch the game.

The policy and resources committee was due to start at the Guildhall at 7pm - the same time as the kick-off.

On the agenda to be discussed were important issues including proposed changes to parish boundaries, the corporate health and safety policy and a report about planning applications in conservation areas.

But it has now been postponed for a week so members can enjoy the game and not be potentially distracted by the game if the meeting went ahead.

Council spokesman Leo Whitlock said: "We’re chuffed to bits England is due to face Croatia in the World Cup semi final at 7pm on Wednesday night – the same time as our policy and resources committee was due to meet with a pretty packed agenda.

“So we’ve put our meeting back to July 18 so the public, councillors and officers can concentrate on the game then focus on the big decisions the following week.”